Twelve Twenty-Five: The Life and Times of a Steam Locomotive

Please join us for an early evening hosted by MSU Archives and MSU Press featuring an enlightening retelling of the history of a World War II-era steam locomotive and the determination of two generations of volunteers to keep it running!

Kevin P. Keefe will be speaking October 26, in Conrad Hall, Room 102, from 5:00-7:00 p.m. regarding his new book Twelve Twenty-Five: The Life and Times of a Steam Locomotive.

Pere Marquette 1225 was built in 1941 at the peak of steam locomotive development. The narrative traces the 1225’s regular freight service in Michigan, its unlikely salvation from the scrapyard for preservation at Michigan State University, and the subsequent work to bring it back to steam, first by a student club and later by a railroad museum. Milestones along the way include 1225’s retirement in 1951, its donation to MSU in 1957, its return to steam in 1988, a successful career hauling tens of thousands of excursion riders, and its starring role in the 2004 movie The Polar Express.

The MSU Archives will host an open house featuring unique historical documents and photographs of the 1225.

Keefe will have books available to sign and light refreshments will be served.